The British High Commission and Global Affairs Canada have announced members of the Nobel Peace Prize nominated Syria Civil Defence, also known as the White Helmets, will visit Canada from 7-13 December as part of a series of free public events called “Searching for Hope in Syria: In Conversation with the White Helmets”.

Each event will include a screening of the award winning Netflix documentary ‘The White Helmets’ followed by a panel discussion with senior members of the White Helmets and Mayday Rescue – the primary implementing partner of Syria Civil Defence.

Panellists for these special screenings will include, Raed Saleh, Leader of the White Helmets and Chair of Syria Civil Defence; Farouq Habib, the White Helmets’ Head of International Relations; and James Le Mesurier, founder of May Day Rescue. He will explain how May Day Rescue trains White Helmets volunteers, who have saved tens of thousands of lives in one of the most dangerous places on earth.

Made possible through the support of the British High Commission and Global Affairs Canada, these events are a further example of how the UK and Canada are working together to raise awareness of the devastating situation in Syria.’

Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Stéphane Dion said:

Canada is steadfast in its support of the Syrian people. I am truly inspired by the courage of the White Helmets, who put their lives on the line to help the most vulnerable in Syria. I commend them for their bravery. We stand shoulder to shoulder with our allies in our pursuit of a political settlement that will bring an end to the violent conflict in Syria.

British High Commissioner to Canada Howard Drake said:

I’m delighted we are bringing this remarkable organization to Canada. Given the unfolding tragedy in Syria, it is vital that we focus international attention on the crisis and support those who are risking their lives to save others. The White Helmets’ nomination for the Noble Peace Prize was a testament to their bravery, having saved over 73,000 people from the rubble. Our film tour will be an opportunity for all of us to recognize this bravery and to discuss a way forward for the people of Syria. There is no more pressing international issue.

Head of the White Helmets and Chair of Syria Civil Defence Raed Saleh said:

We look forward to coming to Canada to share our work through the film and to discuss with Canadians the stark realities of life in Syria.

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